As Paul’s in custody of the Romans he is given an opportunity to defend himself against his accusers. A great dissension arises between the Sadducees and Pharisees because of differing beliefs so Paul is brought into the barracks. The Lord reveals a plot against Paul’s life. Notice who is involved in an unlawful and malicious plot, “And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. Now there were more than forty who had formed this conspiracy. They came to the chief priests and elders, and said, “We have bound ourselves under a great oath that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul. Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be brought down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to make further inquiries concerning him; but we are ready to kill him before he comes near.”” Acts 23:12-15
Chief priest, elders, and Jewish people conspired to murder. Hatred had blinded these men from truth and justice. Once defenders of truth and justice now they had given themselves over to bitterness and hatred.
We too can take offense to the point bitterness and hatred take root in us. It’s important we give let go of offenses and give them to the Father. Leaving seeds of bitterness and hatred in our hearts will have lasting effects. We sometimes don’t see the fruit of bitterness and hatred immediately. But rest assured not giving these things to the Lord will blind you from truth and justice.
Are you holding anything in your heart towards others? Give it to the Father today, right now! He can carry it, you can’t. Read Matthew 11:28-30 and spend time with the Father. Let Him take His child’s hurt and bitterness away and be refreshed in His presence.
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